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Entry Level Environmental Engineering Jobs in Springfield, IL

ADB

Laborer II

Springfield, IL

$24/hr

... I and Engineering. Our customer centric approach has ensured long term relationships with ... The Laborer II has proven experience working within a utility construction environment and ...

All JobsEnvironmental Engineering JobsEntry Level Environmental Engineering JobsEntry Level Environmental Engineering Jobs in Springfield, IL

Entry Level Environmental Engineering information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$30.7K

$59.3K

$101.1K

How much do entry level environmental engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental engineering in Springfield, IL is $59,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, or chemical engineering and a solid foundation in environmental regulations, data analysis, and problem-solving. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS applications, and environmental modeling tools, as well as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability skills help you collaborate effectively and respond to project challenges. These competencies ensure accurate project execution, regulatory compliance, and effective contributions to multidisciplinary teams working on environmental solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Environmental Engineering vs Entry Level Civil Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Environmental EngineeringEntry Level Civil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental or Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) examBachelor's in Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) exam
Work EnvironmentEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sitesConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental protection, sustainability, regulatory agenciesTransportation, infrastructure, urban development

Entry Level Environmental Engineering and Entry Level Civil Engineering share similar educational requirements and work environments. However, environmental engineers focus on sustainability, pollution control, and environmental regulations, while civil engineers concentrate on infrastructure, construction, and transportation projects. Both roles are essential in shaping sustainable and functional communities, often overlapping in consulting and government sectors.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry-level environmental engineer might work on during their first year?

Entry-level environmental engineers often contribute to a variety of projects such as site assessments, water and air quality monitoring, environmental impact reports, and assisting with the design of pollution control systems. Responsibilities may include data collection and analysis, preparing technical documentation, and supporting senior engineers during fieldwork or regulatory compliance activities. These tasks help new engineers develop a strong foundation in both technical and regulatory aspects of environmental projects while working closely with multidisciplinary teams.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior environmental engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can reach or exceed a $200,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries or managerial roles. Achieving this level often requires years of experience, advanced degrees, and expertise in areas like environmental compliance, project management, or consulting.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level environmental engineering roles do not reach such high salaries, senior environmental engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, or leadership positions can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $200,000 annually. Achieving a $500,000 salary typically requires advanced roles in management, consulting, or executive positions, often combined with bonuses and profit sharing.

What does an entry-level environmental engineer do?

An entry-level environmental engineer assists in designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control, waste management, and water treatment. They often collect data, conduct site assessments, use software tools like AutoCAD or GIS, and follow safety and regulatory standards under supervision.

What do entry level environmental engineers do?

Entry level environmental engineers assist in designing, developing, and implementing solutions to environmental problems. They may work on projects related to water and air pollution control, recycling, waste disposal, and sustainable design. Their responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing environmental data, preparing reports, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting senior engineers in project management. Entry level roles provide hands-on experience and help new engineers build technical and communication skills necessary for career advancement.

Is there a high demand for environmental engineers?

Environmental engineering is a growing field with strong demand driven by increased environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives. Entry-level environmental engineers can find opportunities in consulting firms, government agencies, and private industry, often requiring knowledge of environmental laws, data analysis, and environmental modeling tools.
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Engineering jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Environmental Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Environmental Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Engineering job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,250 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Entry Level Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Springfield, IL • On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

If you're a Jr. Engineer who likes problem-solving, technology, and seeing immediate impact on projects, come uncover more of your career and contribute to Subsurface Utility Engineering at Prairie Engineers.

This entry level position will focus heavily on subsurface utility engineering with occasional travel throughout the U.S. While in the office, you will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located within one hour of the greater St. Louis MO region. We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business with opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. At Prairie, we're looking to be in the forefront of subsurface detection technology in one of the fastest-growing specialties in infrastructure. Our goal resonates with you? Great, let's connect!

What you Need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABETaccredited program.
  • Licensure: Passed FE exam or will within the first 6 months of employment.
  • Experience: 02 years of experience in civil engineering focused on subsurface utility engineering (SUE) or utility design. More experience definitely a plus.
  • Software: Microsoft Office Suite, CAD and/or GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, AutoCAD, Microstation), ability to quickly learn and understand new software.
  • Travel: Able to travel and work nights/weekends as project schedules require.
  • Safety: Valid driver's license with insurable driving record; able to pass background check, preemployment and random drug screens; able to walk equivalent of several miles daily and lift up to 80 lbs. consistently.
    • What you will Do:
  • Contribute to the collection, interpretation, and analysis of subsurface utility data using advanced geophysical and survey technology.
  • Develop detailed utility maps and engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Microstation, and GIS systems.
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of deliverables through thorough quality review.
  • Support the development of SUE work plans and technical reports for complex civil infrastructure projects.
  • Solve underground conflicts and coordinate solutions in partnership with project teams, clients, and utility owners.
  • Uphold a strong culture of safety in both field and office environments.
    • How you Align:
  • People Focused: Professional, respectful, and teamoriented, with a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate internally and externally.
  • Can Do Attitude: Positively engages with challenges, facilitates problemsolving, and takes initiative to deliver solutions.
  • Responsive: Communicates openly, proactively, and promptly, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

    • Salary range: $62,400 - $74,880 per year, determined by education, experience, licensure, and knowledge, skills and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external benchmarking.

    Check out the Careers page at prairieengineers.com for details on the benefits package available including 401(k), medical insurance starting on day one, generous paid time off, professional development and to find out why employees chose to join our team. Prairie Engineers is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.

    Potential candidates for this position should apply with cover letter and resume. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. However, we are not able to sponsor current or future visas for this position.

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